Behind the curtains, hundreds of Cast Members go above and beyond to make sure each of our shows exceed guests’ expectations. Today, we’re taking you backstage, where the faces of those who bring our stories to life showcased their talent to fellow Cast Members during the first edition of the event Backstage Stories: Entertainment Careers from Creative to Operations.
The Birth of an Idea
Every idea begins with a blank page, or rather, a blue sky. The Blue Sky phase is the moment when anything is possible. This is where the world of a future show takes shape through brainstorming sessions and narrative exploration.
The creative teams then put together different assets, like moodboards, for example, a visual expression of the creative intent that will serve as the project’s starting point. Once the project team is assembled, a period of collaboration begins between production and Show Directors to ensure that the original idea can one day shine under the spotlight.
The Challenge of Reality
Once the concept is approved, the dream must be turned into reality. This is the crucial role of the DTS Designer—Show Technical Development. They ensure that even the wildest ideas from the Blue Skyphase are technically achievable while guaranteeing absolute safety for everyone. As explained by Martin, DTS Designer on the show Disney Tales of Magic, who began his journey at Disneyland Paris in 2019 as a Video Stage Manager.
The Dream Factory of Our Cast Members
The production and fabrication phase bring together a wide range of exceptional crafts and skills.
It’s the case, for instance, of Yvon, a Props Agent at Disneyland Paris for the past two years. He creates set pieces and stage objects once the design phase is complete. He tells us that constant dialogue exists between Designers and Props Agents during the creation of props, ensuring every piece of expertise and advice is taken into account.
In our workshops, the Costume Makers are always busy! Just like Camille, who has been at Disneyland Paris for seven years. She started at Attractions Costuming, where she handled the regular maintenance of Audio-Animatronics costumes for attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean. Working closely with the maintenance animation teams responsible for their movements, she ensures that the costumes never hinder their motion.
Curtains Up!
At last, the show takes over the stage and a multitude of roles come into play at this point.
For example, the Stage Technicians who set up and operate scenery at precise locations on our stages, just as Kenny, Assistant Stage Coordinator, explains. Kenny began his career at Moteurs, Action! Stunt Show Spectacular. He now works on Disney Cascade of Lights, the upcoming nighttime spectacular at Disney Adventure World.
Audio-Technicians move across both Disney Parks to equip performers with microphones. A major responsibility, since at Disneyland Paris, all Singers perform live, with no playback, in most of the shows.
Florian, Special Effects Technician, has been coordinating special effects across both Disney Parks for eight years. After working on Disney Tales of Magic, he now brings his expertise to Studio D and the future productions of Disney Adventure World. A Special Effects Technician is responsible for managing and installing fireworks, pyrotechnics, smoke effects… A fundamental role in keeping the magic alive.
Fun fact: The Dance Captain is the Choreographer’s true right hand. They ensure the artistic vision is passed on to the performers who take the stage every day. They know every step, every movement, and can even step in for a performer at any time, so the magic never stops.
And now it is time… The moment we have all been waiting for… Curtains up & time to enjoy!
Countless other roles help bring magic to life every day at Disneyland Paris.
Thank you to all our Cast Members who, through their passion and expertise, continue to make Disneyland Paris an unique place where dreams come true.